Things to do & places to visit in Arizona, United States

The state of Arizona is one that features a fantastic diversity of landscapes and areas of geological interest. North Arizona is famous for the Grand Canyon, a colorful chasm with steep rocky walls more than a mile deep and stretching some 277 miles alongside the Colorado River. Other notable destinations in North Arizona include Flagstaff set alongside the San Francisco Peaks which has the largest ponderosa pine forest, Museum of Northern Arizona, and is close to a number of national parks and monuments. On the south side of Arizona lies the city of Phoenix, the largest in Arizona. Notable day trips in Phoenix include the Heard Museum which is one of America's largest collections of Native American art, Phoenix Museum of History, as well as the Desert Botanical garden which has a great collection of desert plants.

Arizona #7 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.58 based on 396.9k traveler reviews, of 1.652 attractions. Timezone: America/Phoenix, current date and time: Friday, December 08, 2023, 21:11.

Top things to do (41)

Top destinations in Arizona 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Grand Canyon South Rim (23.4k reviews)
- Took my breath away!
Canyons

The most developed area of Grand Canyon National Park, the South Rim offers amenities such as bus service, hotels and water stations, but is also more crowded than the North Rim. Scenic highlights include Pipe Creek Vista and Yavapai Point. See more..
5.0 Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (8.823 reviews)
- Make This Your First Tucson Stop
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Galleries • Speciality Museums • Natural History Museums

The renowned Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is everything you could want in a Sonoran Desert adventure! Mostly outdoors and comprised of an AZA-accredited zoo, extensive botanical garden, two art galleries, and a natural history museum, the Desert Museum sits on 98 acres of pristine desert landscape. The Museum showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert region (with over 55,000 plants!) featuring wildlife such as coyotes, javelinas, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep in naturalistic habitats. Bird lovers delight in visiting the Museum's two aviaries, one dedicated to hummingbirds! Kids love the interactive Packrat Playhouse and Stingray Touch exhibits, learning to appreciate our unique environment from a young age. The Museum's gift shops offer a bounty of books, jewelry, crafts, and more. This family-friendly establishment offers something for everyone! See more..
5.0 Dixie's Lower Antelope Canyon Tours (8.112 reviews)
- Worth it!
Friday: 7:45 AM - 4:15 PM Walking Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Photography Tours

Lydell Lane (Navajo guide) mesmerized us with his skill at helping us capture the astounding beauty of the canyon with our cameras, and shared the history of the canyon and his tribe. Happily, visiting in February (no crowds) afforded us extra personalized time and attention on our tour. We learned useful photography tips from this pro, and enjoyed seeing the ladder he welded himself! The guides are also responsible for maintenance of the canyon (he joked that it weeded out those who didn’t REALLY love their jobs)—and we were privy to some great stories! Worth it—Dixie is Ken’s sister (adjacent Navajo companies), so your tour cost offers support for local economies. Highly recommended! See more..
5.0 Lower Antelope Canyon (6.910 reviews) from $90.00
- Unique and Beautiful!
Spent 1-2 hours Canyons

It's truly amazing that the rain water rushing off the mesas would carve such beautiful paths and formations in the sandstone over the years. The fact that the sandstone is various shades of red from the iron content makes it even more special. This tour was fantastic in every way. Ray Herder was a great guide. He shared some very good tips about how to get the best pictures with our phones and cameras, he pointed out several unique formations in the sandstone, he took lots of pictures of everyone in his group, and he told fun stories, including how his Father used to rappel into the canyon with his friends when he was a teenager. The pace of the tour was just right, and the groups are staggered so that it doesn't feel like there's a crowd in the canyon. Ken's Tours also has a very nice gift shop to browse before and/or after the tour. I highly recommend Ken's Tours at Lower Antelope Canyon for a unique, fascinating, and fun experience. See more..
5.0 Musical Instrument Museum (6.481 reviews)
- Musical must see!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

The World's Only Global Musical Instrument Museum. Home of the MIM Music Theater--a 300-seat acoustically superb performance space--as well as the award-winning Café Allegro (open 11 am - 2 pm daily) and the MIM Museum Store. The average guest spends nearly four hours at MIM. Please allow plenty of time to fully enjoy MIM's galleries and exhibits. Open daily, 9 am - 5 pm; Closed Thanksgiving; Open Christmas, 11 am - 5 pm. General Admission: $20; Teens (ages 13-19): $15; Children (ages 4-12): $10; Children 3 and under: Free. Hours and prices are subject to change. See more..
5.0 Cathedral Rock (6.031 reviews)
- A beautiful butte!
Spent More than 3 hours Geologic Formations

Towering red rock formation, part of the Cathedral Rock Trail. See more..
5.0 Arizona Safari Jeep Tours (5.472 reviews)
- Amazing tour.
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

Our driver Joe was amazing. He knew the history and geology of the area extremely well and was also very entertaining (not to mention a great photographer). We were lucky enough to have poor weather and wet conditions the day of our tour. I highly recommend DO NOT CANCEL if weather is a little wet. Our tour changed from seven canyons to a different one I think they called "the rim". After a little slipping and sliding and a whole lot of bouncing all the way up we were literally the only people at the top. We saw a number of small waterfalls and even one area that Joe said he had only seen water there one other time. Our driver was always very careful but still provided a great Jeep experience. Arizona Safari really did a great job of modifying their Jeeps to allow this experience to happen. See more..
5.0 Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) (4.276 reviews)
- Mesmerizing and Memorable
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Scenic Drives

The Red Rock Scenic Byway is your Gateway to the world-famous Red Rock Country of Sedona, Arizona … just 110 miles north of Phoenix, about 40 miles south of Flagstaff, and only a few hours south of the Grand Canyon. See more..
5.0 Mt. Lemmon Scenic Byway (3.234 reviews)
- Awesome! The best word to describe this tour with Tim. Travel different biozones in 30 mile trip with views not to miss!
Scenic Drives

Tim of Tucson Mountain Shuttle was just amazing. So much knowledge and a clear passion for Tucson and the Mt Lemmon region. I was travelling solo and Tim was a fun, kind guide, sharing his insights and passion for this area. The audio commentary was interesting and despite jet-lag I retained a fair amount! I would highly recommend this tour, my mind was blown by the differing bio zones in a 30 mile drive. Thank you Tim, what a absolute cracker of a morning! See more..
5.0 Arizona ATV Adventures (2.429 reviews)
- Arizona ATV Adventure Tours - Sedona
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours

This was the BEST part of our trip to Sedona!! We were traveling with our two adult daughters. It was a GREAT activity that the whole family could enjoy. The tour was four hours long, and we did not want it to end!! We took the 1:00 tour. We had never ridden ATVs, and the staff patiently trained us. You do not need to purchase gloves. The tour company will provide goggles, helmets, and bandanas. Jon was our wonderful guide! He took us to some beautiful secluded red-rock areas. We occasionally stopped to take photos. Our tour was in late October, and it was perfect sweatshirt weather. My only advice is to wear long sleeves for sun protection and to wear old clothes. You will be dusty!!! My husband wore a white shirt that will never be white again!! We rented two ATVs and rode double which was a much cheaper option than renting four ATVs. You should book your tour at least a week before your trip. The tours fill up fast!! See more..
5.0 Grand Canyon North Rim (2.420 reviews)
- Magnificent views of the Grand Canyon
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Canyons

Word of mouth has that the more remote, harder to get to and therefore less crowded North Rim offers a more authentic Canyon experience and better views. However, there is no bus service on this rim and it is closed during the winter. See more..
5.0 Bright Angel Trail (2.380 reviews)
- Amazing experience!
Hiking Trails

One of the two superhighways of the Grand Canyon, this well maintained and popular trail offers breathtaking vistas, some shaded areas. See more..
5.0 South Kaibab Trail (1.744 reviews)
- Spectacular views
Hiking Trails

One of the two superhighways into the Canyon, the other being the Bright Angel Trail, this path runs along a ridge offering stunning views. During the summer, visitors are advised to bring at least two quarts of water along because it can get very hot and the trail offers no shade. See more..
4.5 Horseshoe Bend (15.2k reviews)
- Definitely Stop Here!
Spent 1-2 hours Lookouts • Geologic Formations

This horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado River is just a short hike from the beginning of Grand Canyon National Park. The overlook point, which can be accessed via the town of Page, is particularly popular during sunset when the landscape is at its most vibrant, and the iconic turquoise bend glows against the orange cliffs. Although the desert hike is relatively easy, you won’t encounter much shade, so be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. To maximize your time here, join a tour that includes other picturesque sights like Glen Canyon Dam and Antelope Canyon. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Chapel of the Holy Cross (10.6k reviews)
- It's worth satisfying the curiosity (also, restrooms status!)
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Mysterious Sites • Religious Sites

This chapel, located among dramatic rock formations, offers spectacular views, especially at sunset. See more..
4.5 Desert Botanical Garden (9.038 reviews)
- Botanical garden at dusk
Friday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

Discover the tranquil vibrancy of desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of the Sonoran Desert, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. Scroll through the Garden's calendar so not to miss festive events and dazzling exhibitions. Delve deeper to learn about desert landscaping, nature art, cooking and wellness and more through the Garden's various adult and children's classes. See more..
4.5 Antelope Canyon (8.560 reviews) from $61.75
- Beautiful canyon
Spent 1-2 hours Canyons

The only way to visit this otherworldly spot is to book yourself on a tour with a Navajo guide. The Upper Antelope Canyon is especially picturesque, with better lit areas and light shafts usually visible at noon, a popular time to visit for the best photos. It can get pretty hot, and the terrain is tricky and uneven, so wear sturdy shoes, load up on water, and pile on the sunscreen. Antelope Canyon can get really busy, especially from March to October when the light beams occur, so secure your booking at least six months in advance. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Bell Rock (4.983 reviews)
- Excellent hiking area, lots of options for trails and distances.
Geologic Formations

The Bell Rock pathway can be accessed by several parking lots off highway 179. The Bell Rock Vista parking lot seemed to be the largest of the 3 but they do fill up quickly. Several times, we returned in the afternoon around 3pm and there were parking slots available. You will need to buy a parking pass from the automated machine. You can buy 1 day pass for $5 or a week long pass for $15. The pass can be used at many of the hiking spots around Sedona. The pathway is a dirt pathway and sometimes is on a rock mountain edge but fairly easy path. Many signs to guide you on the right path or suggest other hiking trails in the area. You still should pay attention to your directions and notice landmarks to help you return to your car. Many cactus and spring flowers were blooming. You can walk as long as you like, long or short. Great colors of the red rocks and blue sky. Remember to take some water and snacks if you stay out awhile. See more..
4.5 Pima Air and Space Museum (4.882 reviews)
- Glad we took time to visit Pima Air and Space Museum
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

400 aircraft, 80 acres, 6 indoor air-cooled hangars... just plane awesome! We’re one of the world's largest aircraft collections including 3 hangars of WWII planes, the SR-71, the world's smallest biplane, and many other unique private, military, and commercial air & spacecraft documenting the evolution of flight. There’s something for the everyone from a “flight simulator” Boeing 720 cockpit, the Women in Flight Gallery, and an all around mecca for the aviation aficionado. We give the only tour of the "Boneyard"/AMARG (M-F, no holidays, 16-day advanced reservations required) plus a tram tour of the museum's 80 acres and one-of-a-kind planes. You can actually touch aviation history like "Freedom One" (that flew American hostages home after 444 days in Iran), presidential planes, others with wingspans the near the length of a football field... ogle helicopters, MiGs, an Oscar, a rare German buzz bomb, a moon rock, and much more! See more..
4.5 Sabino Canyon (4.860 reviews)
- Must See in Tucson
Canyons

Located in the Catalina Mountains and part of the Coronado National Forest, this beautiful canyon offers outdoor recreation including hiking, swimming, biking and picnicking. For an overview of the area, take the narrated shuttle bus tour. See more..
4.5 Mission San Xavier del Bac (4.385 reviews)
- Historic Gem
Spent < 1 hour Architectural Buildings • Missions • Religious Sites

Built in the 1700s, this recently restored white adobe church, representing a wonderful example of Spanish colonial architecture, is beautiful inside and out, with colorful frescoes, sculptures and carvings. See more..
4.5 Taliesin West (4.155 reviews)
- Frank Lloyd RIGHT!!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Architectural Buildings

Experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert through the eyes of Frank Lloyd Wright. Deeply connected to the land from which it was forged, Taliesin West is a celebration of the Arizona desert — a celebration you can step into and explore on a tour, either guided by a Taliesin West expert or at your own pace with an audio tour. See more..
4.5 Bearizona Wildlife Park (3.753 reviews)
- Fun place to visit!
Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Safaris • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Zoos

Bearizona is a Wildlife Park featuring a drive through area as well as a walk through area. View animals in natural habitats during your drive. Check out more animals on exhibit in the walk through. There are several animal shows throughout the day. See more..
4.5 Devil's Bridge Trail (3.641 reviews)
- It was suggested to us and we did it!
Hiking Trails

This 1.8-mile hike will lead you to Sedona’s iconic sandstone arch, where you’ll get breathtaking views of the surrounding valley and rock formations. Get there early to beat the crowd or expect to wait for up to a couple of hours for a photo op. Walk about a mile along the Dry Creek dirt road to reach the trailhead, but if you can’t find a spot at the Dry Creek Trailhead parking lot, park along the highway instead. Otherwise, Sedona offers a free shuttle service from downtown to two of the five trailheads, Mescal and Dry Creek Vista. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Oak Creek Canyon (3.422 reviews)
- Fantastic
Canyons • Hiking Trails • Scenic Drives

Take one of America’s most scenic drives—the 30-mile route from Flagstaff to Sedona—to Oak Creek Canyon. You can get a detailed map from the ranger station before you set off. Watch as towering red cliffs give way to lush forested canyons along the drive. There’s so much to do once you’re there: cool off at the swimming holes, fish for your own meal, hike the popular West Fork trail, ride a jeep or ATV, or hop on a hot air balloon ride. Pick up some Native American crafts at Oak Creek Vista. Visit in the fall to see the stunning colors of the changing leaves and for fewer crowds. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Heard Museum (2.960 reviews)
- Excellent museum
Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums • History Museums

The foremost showcase of Native American art and culture in the U.S., the Heard Museum reveals the cultures of tribes in the region through exhibits, demonstrations and live performances and displays the work of contemporary Native American artists. Artists demonstrate their work during the week and musicians perform on most weekends. See more..
4.5 Airport Mesa (2.858 reviews)
- Fantastic sunset view
Hiking Trails

This location is super easy to find and parking is $3 with a very short walk to the viewing area. I would suggest going early, taking some chairs and enjoying the night fall. If you’d like to visit the grave site of Sedona the post master generals wife the city is named after you can do so on the way to the airport. This location is also a vortex site so you get the excitement of the sunset along with the energy flow. See more..
4.5 Walnut Canyon National Monument (2.715 reviews)
- Just WOWzers
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM National Parks • Canyons

See millions of years of history unraveled in the geology of the rocks at this popular scenic and historic hiking area, once populated by the Sinagua Indians. See more..
4.5 O.K. Corral (2.686 reviews)
- Gunfight reenactment and more!
Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

Actual site of the famous 1881 Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, AZ. Subject of numerous Hollywood movies. See Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday in daily reenactments. Stand where the legendary Gunfight began. Visit Doc Holliday's room. View over 100 photos of 1880s Tombstone and the Apache Geronimo taken by famous Tombstone photographer C.S. Fly. Open daily 9-5. See more..
4.5 Montezuma Castle National Monument (2.625 reviews)
- Stunning in the winter sun
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites

This stone castle built into a shallow cave on a cliff was once a six-story dwelling with 45 rooms. See more..